These cranberry chili meatballs are sweet, savory, and irresistibly saucy.
Made with just a handful of ingredients, they’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or an easy appetizer night at home.
The balance of tangy cranberry sauce and zesty chili sauce makes them a guaranteed crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It uses frozen meatballs for ultimate convenience.
The sauce comes together quickly with bold, classic flavor.
Perfect for holidays, game days, or last-minute guests.
Easy to scale up for a crowd.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cranberry sauce adds sweetness and tang.
Chili sauce brings savory depth and mild heat.
Brown sugar balances the acidity.
Garlic powder and black pepper round out the flavor.
Frozen meatballs make prep effortless.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Stir the sauce gently until completely smooth.
Simmer on low to avoid sticking or scorching.
Use a large skillet or saucepan for even coating.
Keep warm in a slow cooker for serving.
How to Make Cranberry Chili Meatballs
Step 1 – Make the sauce
Combine cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper in a large skillet or saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring until smooth and heated through, about 5 minutes.
Step 2 – Add the meatballs
Stir in frozen meatballs until evenly coated.
Step 3 – Simmer
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 15–20 minutes until meatballs are heated through.
Step 4 – Serve
Transfer to a serving bowl or slow cooker set to warm.
Garnish if desired.
What to Serve Them With
Toothpicks for easy serving.
Rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier option.
Crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Variations / Substitutions
Use turkey meatballs for a lighter version.
Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Swap brown sugar for honey.
Add a splash of orange juice for brightness.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Freeze cooked meatballs with sauce up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook sauce first, then simmer on low 2–3 hours.
Is this spicy?
Mild, depending on the chili sauce.
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Absolutely.
Do I need to thaw the meatballs?
No, use them frozen.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales very well.
What garnish works best?
Parsley or rosemary.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, flavors improve over time.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s mildly sweet and savory.
Final Thoughts
These cranberry chili meatballs are a classic, no-fail appetizer.
Sweet, tangy, and incredibly easy, they’re the kind of recipe you’ll be asked to bring again and again.
Perfect for entertaining or stress-free comfort food.
Best Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Heat cranberry sauce, chili sauce, sugar, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth.
- Add meatballs and stir to coat.
- Simmer covered 15–20 minutes until heated through.
- Serve warm.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://ekellyn.com/best-christmas-cranberry-meatballs/
Notes
- Slow cooker option: Cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours.
- Extra kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Make ahead: Reheat gently before serving.
- Perfect for: Holidays, game day, potlucks, and parties.
